Fred "Cyclone" Taylor, born on June 23, 1884, in Tara, Ontario, became one of the most celebrated figures in the early days of professional ice hockey. His career began in earnest when he joined the Portage Lakes Hockey Club in Michigan, part of the International Professional Hockey League (IPHL), in 1905. This league was the first of its kind to pay players, and Taylor's exceptional speed and skill quickly caught the attention of fans and teams alike.

Taylor's nickname, "Cyclone," was reportedly given to him by a sportswriter who was amazed by his speed on the ice. His ability to skate swiftly and handle the puck with precision made him a standout player. After the IPHL folded in 1907, Taylor returned to Canada, where he played for the Ottawa Senators in the Eastern Canada Amateur Hockey Association (ECAHA). During his time with Ottawa, he helped the team secure the Stanley Cup in 1909, showcasing his talent on a national stage.

In 1910, Taylor made a controversial move to the Renfrew Creamery Kings, a team in the newly formed National Hockey Association (NHA), which later evolved into the National Hockey League (NHL). Renfrew offered him an unprecedented salary, making him one of the highest-paid athletes of his time. Although the team did not win the championship, Taylor's performance was outstanding, and he continued to build his reputation as one of the best players in the game.

Taylor's career took another turn when he joined the Vancouver Millionaires of the Pacific Coast Hockey Association (PCHA) in 1912. The PCHA was a rival league to the NHA, and Taylor's presence helped elevate its status. With the Millionaires, Taylor achieved one of his greatest career highlights by leading the team to a Stanley Cup victory in 1915. His leadership and skill were instrumental in the team's success, and he became a beloved figure in Vancouver.

Throughout his career, Taylor was known for his sportsmanship and gentlemanly conduct on the ice. Despite the rough nature of hockey during that era, he maintained a reputation for fair play. His ability to play both forward and defense added to his versatility, making him an invaluable asset to any team he joined.

Taylor continued to play with the Vancouver Millionaires until 1921, when he retired from professional hockey. After retiring, he remained involved in the sport, contributing to its development and growth in various capacities. His legacy was cemented when he was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1947, recognizing his outstanding career and influence on the game.

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